Engine build gone bad
7/4/08, 01:21 PM
#1
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Engine build gone bad
Over the winter I had a reputable shop build a forged stroker. I had them port the heads, and we installed Comp Cams Stage III cams, and LT's.
Last month I picked the car up. The engine shuddered badly a couple times from a low RPM start. The shop had no answers, so I researched the symptoms. Seemed indicative of cam phaser problems, so I had them install Livernois lockouts. The problem has since not occurred.
Finally took the car to get dyno tuned. Ready for this???
I made LESS power
All things being equal, boost, a/f, timing. I am down about 20whp on the new motor. Obviously I am going to give the engine builder a chance to look at the engine, and as much as I hate to say it, I hope he finds something. Otherwise, I may be asking for a partial refund on his labor. He told me to expect at least another 50-70whp.
Last month I picked the car up. The engine shuddered badly a couple times from a low RPM start. The shop had no answers, so I researched the symptoms. Seemed indicative of cam phaser problems, so I had them install Livernois lockouts. The problem has since not occurred.
Finally took the car to get dyno tuned. Ready for this???
I made LESS power
All things being equal, boost, a/f, timing. I am down about 20whp on the new motor. Obviously I am going to give the engine builder a chance to look at the engine, and as much as I hate to say it, I hope he finds something. Otherwise, I may be asking for a partial refund on his labor. He told me to expect at least another 50-70whp.
7/6/08, 05:26 AM
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My expectation is that he send a flatbed to pick the car up on his nickel. This will be the third time the car has gone back to him for various problems. Moreover, I expect him to go through the engine until a problem is found or a logical explanation can be provided. If he cannot find the problem or reason the car is making less power, I will be asking for a refund on all of his labor charges.
Guys, I normally make better choices when it comes to choosing people to do business with. Please do yourselves a favor and think twice about who you hire to build an engine. I would encourge everyone to go with a highly reputable builder with a track record of success with modular engines, 3 valves in particular.
7/6/08, 05:43 AM
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Wow man, sorry for the mess you are going through. The same money I'm setting back for a 2011 will be the same money I use to build my motor should I change my mind. I got my sights set on the boys from the Jersey area but that's something to think about.. Definitely keep us posted.
7/6/08, 07:31 AM
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Joe beat me to it. Typically when one builds one of these engines it's in anticipation of 500+ rwhp with FI. Therefore I would expect a lower compression ratio to better handle the boost. Just a guess though, it may have serrious issues.
7/7/08, 02:24 PM
#10
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I'm not really familiar with engine builds, but is there any sort of break in period?
Even if there was, I can't imagine it making anywhere near a 20 hp difference. Keep us posted, this is strange to say the least.
Even if there was, I can't imagine it making anywhere near a 20 hp difference. Keep us posted, this is strange to say the least.
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